YOUNGSTERS with special educational needs are getting a break in the jobs market thanks to Bournemouth’s Marsham Court Hotel.

The family-run hotel has given a permanent base to CHI, the Classroom in the Heart of Industry training programme.

CHI gives young school leavers, who are not equipped for an apprenticeship or college, the opportunity to learn alongside industry professionals.

And they also get the chance to gain recognised qualifications at the same time.

Chloe Whitehead, 16, a former Poole High student said: “It’s great to be working here at the Marsham Court.

“We have our classes in a special training room at the hotel and then alongside it we are learning all about the different roles here.

“The staff here are really kind and are teaching me a lot. It’s definitely made me interested in a career in hospitality.”

Hannah Owen, 17, is a former Glenmoor School pupil and has been working in the Marsham Court’s silver service restaurant.

Course tutor Karen Taylor said: “There are youngsters who leave school unable to cope with college or an apprenticeship and while most have a valuable contribution to make to industry, they may need practical support to enable them to move forward into further training or employment.”

“Students aged 16-19 attend five days a week during term time and have classroom lessons alongside placements around the hotel in housekeeping, the kitchen, maintenance and front of house.

“They also study towards relevant qualifications and learn the importance of time-keeping, personal presentation and how to deal with the public.

“We are pleased to say the course has already led to former students securing jobs in the local hospitality industry.”

Rosie Wallace, managing director of the Marsham Court Hotel said: “The Marsham Court works hard to ensure the future of our local hospitality industry by supporting training schemes for local schools and offering work experience to long-term unemployed people.

“It is a privilege to host the CHI course and we have been impressed by how well the young people are rising to the challenges we set them. I have no doubt they will go on to rewarding careers.”